18+. This material is intended only for adults aged 18 and over. Gambling can be addictive. Never stake more than you can afford to lose.
Stay in control
- Decide a budget and a time limit before you play, then stick to both.
- Do not chase losses by staking more to win money back.
- Treat gambling as paid entertainment — never as income or a fix for money problems.
- Skip gambling when you are tired, stressed, upset or have been drinking.
- Take regular breaks and keep play balanced with the rest of your life.
Tools on UK-licensed platforms
UKGC-licensed operators must offer tools that help you manage play. Find them in your account settings and turn them on early:
- Deposit limits — cap how much you can deposit each day, week or month.
- Time-outs and cool-offs — a short break from that platform’s site.
- Reality checks — reminders of how long you have been playing.
- Self-exclusion — block your access to a platform for a longer period.
- Activity statements — review deposits, withdrawals and wins or losses.
Exclude yourself from all UK online gambling
GAMSTOP is the free national self-exclusion scheme. One registration blocks you from online gambling sites and apps licensed in Great Britain for the period you choose. Licensed platforms must honour GAMSTOP registrations.
You can also ask your bank about blocking gambling payments, and install blocking software on your devices. If children share your devices, use parental controls to keep gambling content away from them.
Where to get help
Free, confidential support is available for you and for people close to you:
- National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133 Free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- www.begambleaware.org Information and advice, a free self-assessment and links to treatment and support across the UK.
- www.gamcare.org.uk Counselling, support groups and live chat for anyone affected by gambling.
- Gordon Moody Residential and online treatment for people with severe gambling problems.